Stay on target

A French court made it illegal for drivers to use mobile phones in cars—even when stopped, pulled over, or operating hazard lights.

Motorists can face a fine up to €135 for using a handset any time their vehicle isn’t parked in a “designated area” like a parking lot or private driveway.

The infraction also comes with three points on a driving license (for three years)—the same punishment handed out to those caught using phones behind the wheel in France.

As reported by French newspaper Le Figaro, the new rule came down last week from the Court of Cassation. It applies only to a device the driver is holding, not to hands-free sets.

According to the high court, it’s not enough to stop a car and shut off the engine before receiving a phone call or sending a text message. There is, however, one exception: Drivers can make calls if, and only if, they break down on the side of the road.

In a translated statement by the Automobile Club Association, which represents French drivers, a spokesman admitted he is “a little mixed” about the ruling.

“It is indeed punishable to stop on the public road to call,” he told Le Figaro. “But I think we must encourage motorists who stop to use their mobile.”

Experts have long advocated for folks to put down their phone and focus on the road. Yet people still don’t listen.

So, the French government recently revealed a series of steps—cut speed limits, add vehicle ignition breathalyzers, etc.—aimed at reducing traffic deaths. Among them: strip drivers of their license if caught using a mobile phone while operating a vehicle.

The decision, news site The Local said, came after a driver appealed a fine for using a handset while parked at a roundabout with his hazard lights on.

In 2016, Toyota experimented by rewarding Japanese motorists for not using their phone while driving. The car manufacturer teamed up with telecom company KDDI and coffee shop chain Komeda to offer free coffee in return for good driving habits.